Background

Karen is an artist based in High Littleton near Bath. Karen qualified as a Landscape Architect at Sheffield University in 1990 and worked in this career for 15 years before moving into product design where she developed and launched the innovative BuggySail sunshade which formed part of the Silver Cross product portfolio for 10 years. The success of the BuggySail and a timely 'Experimental Painting' workshop back in 2009 gave Karen the freedom to concentrate on her painting. Apart from A Level art and an MA in Landscape Design, Karen is self taught. She works predominantly in acrylic and mixed media and is best known for her broadly abstract landscapes and seascapes with atmospheric skies.

Karen works mainly from the studio taking inspiration for colour and subject from a series of sketches and watercolour studies produced outside on holidays. Her sketch books are a visual diary of people and places visited with the recurring theme of clouds and light throughout.

In June 2010 Karen exhibited at the Fairfax Gallery, London as part of the 'Art & Childhood Memories' Exhibition in aid of The Meningitis Trust. Closer to home Karen exhibits in Bath, Bristol & Wells and sells her work through Arts Trails and private commissions. In 2013 Karen was instrumental in setting up the Cam Valley Arts Trail which supports local artists and promotes the arts locally within the Cam Valley; she continues to chair this group. Karen is also a member of a local art group, Old Bakery Artists, with whom she exhibits on a regular basis.

Karen is currently working on a collection for the forthcoming Cam Valley Arts Trail in the Autumn.Details of the trail can been viewed at www.camvalleyartstrail.co.uk

My Work

The natural environment is a huge inspiration for me. When I paint I always aim to capture the ever changing light that dances over a landscape and the movement of clouds. The whole approach for me is about experimenting and learning as I explore what can be achieved with the acrylic paint and how it combines with other materials and mediums. I enjoy layering paint over a gesso base and scratching/rubbing back to reveal lost layers. Using a limited palette, I work in a semi abstract, instinctive way letting the composition evolve. I love painting and really enjoy the process.

If you are interested in buying a particular piece or would like to commission artwork please use the contact form to get in touch.